PEX (cross-linked polyethylene piping) is a general term for a type of plastic piping used in water supply, heating, and other applications. Kitec® is a specific brand of PEX tubing that was subject of a class action settlement with an end-date for filing claims of 31 March 2012..
Keeping this in consideration, is all PEX kitec?
Kitec® is a brand of plastic piping used in hot and cold water supplies to plumbing fixtures, and in heating systems with boilers. It was made from 1995 to 2007. It is cross-linked polyethylene (PEX). That type is called PEX-AL-PEX.
Secondly, does kitec plumbing need to be replaced? Why Kitec Plumbing Needs To Be Replaced Experts believe that homes with Kitec plumbing could have premature pipe failure. These pipes may not simply develop leaks but actually burst open, causing flooding. The only solution is to completely replace this type of plumbing with copper pipes and fittings.
Keeping this in view, what can I substitute for kitec?
The pipes may not just leak but burst, with potential for flooding. The only complete solution is to replace Kitec plumbing with copper pipes. This will typically require access behind walls and through floors.
How can you tell if you have Kitec plumbing?
To be sure, your best bet is to check out in the area around the hot water tank or in the mechanical room where the pipe connects or exits the walls. You'll also be able to find them in bathrooms as well, under the sinks. Fittings are stamped clearly with Kitec or KTC.
Related Question Answers
How bad is kitec plumbing?
Unfortunately, the brass Kitec fittings allowed a chemical reaction to take place which eventually weakened the fittings causing them to fail. Similar problems caused the pipes to fail. The failure can cause water leakage and flooding in homes resulting in severe property damage.Can brass fittings be buried?
Usage. Underground burial of SharkBite brass fittings requires that the fitting be wrapped in an impermeable material to protect the connection from ground contaminants. Stretches up to 300% for easy use and creates a watertight and airtight seal. Non-adhesive silicone material bonds to itself within minutes.Will sharkbite work on PEX AL PEX?
We prefer the Push style Sharkbite pex fittings. You can use the push Sharkbite pex fittings on all standard pex pipe. The advantage of of Sharkbite pex fittings is that no tools are required to install them. The Sharkbite push on pex fittings push on copper,pex or pvc without having to sweat or use a tool.Can you use sharkbite fittings on kitec?
No other fittings are compatible with KITEC piping. Push fit fittings (SharkBite) do not fit KITEC piping.What is SuperPEX?
BOW SuperPEX tubing is manufactured for use in hot and cold potable water distribution including industrial, commercial, high-rise and multi-family residential facilities. BOW SuperPEX tubing can also be used as a water service pipe buried underground outside of a building.What is IPEX pipe?
As one of the world's leading manufacturer of thermoplastic pipe, valves, fittings and related products for plumbing and mechanical applications, IPEX offers a comprehensive range of integrated solutions to meet the needs of engineers, contractors and distributors in commercial, institutional, industrial andWhen was kitec discontinued?
By 2005, Kitec plumbing had been recalled due to its accelerated corrosion rate. Kitec plumbing was discontinued and is no longer manufactured.Where was kitec manufactured?
Kitec has been extensively installed in New Mexico, Nevada, Arizona, Los Angeles, & Sacramento. One of the biggest builders to have installed Kitec in it's sub divisions has been Del Webb who has been building homes in Nevada, Arizona, & here in the Sacramento area.What do you do with Kitec plumbing?
If you have Kitec plumbing in your home, you may want to call in a licensed plumber or certified home inspector to take a look. In the end, you may have to replace all your piping and fittings. According to The Star, Kitec plumbing replacement costs for a one-bedroom suite can exceed $6,500.Can you run PEX through studs?
Run the Line Without Joints You can run PEX line as you would in a conventional plumbing system, with 3/4-in. If you're running PEX through joists or studs, drill 3/4-in. holes for 1/2-in.Does homeowners cover kitec plumbing?
Depending on the terms of your home insurance policy, you may be covered in the event of a flood caused by burst or leaking Kitec piping in your home. Some home insurers have been willing to cover all or part of the cost to replace Kitec piping to avoid having to eventually pay out a claim for water damage.How much does it cost to replace Kitec plumbing?
Clients of ours who have obtained estimates to replace the Kitec plumbing in their homes have reported costs of $8,000-$10,000. Of course this amount would vary based upon the size of the home and the extent that walls and ceilings may have to be opened.Does PEX fail?
It is true that due to the flexible nature of PEX, it is more burst-resistant than copper. Yet in low temperatures, if water completely freezes in the pipes, all types of PEX may burst.How can you tell if you have polybutylene pipes?
The easiest way to tell you have polybutylene pipes is to locate the “PB” lettering on the printed label (in the image below, look for “PB2110”). Pipes are usually found in the following locations: Coming out of walls to connect with sinks and toilets. Near the water heater. 
